In the summer of 2010, Ryan was approached by local songwriting phenom Christian Ward about producing his solo album.  Christian is a member of the wildly successful bluegrass outfit, The Lost Pines, but wanted to take a slightly different approach to his solo record.  In many ways, it's a traditional American roots music album, but it is very unique in its breadth and range of American music.  There's blues, country, rock, lots of folk, bluegrass, country, an old time holler or two, and country.  And most importantly, a songwriting depth that belies his 29 years on this earth.  

Throughout the summer, Christian and Ryan and whatever assembled cast of musicians was available at the time, gathered at Suite 2E to lay down what would eventually become Love is Made of Work.   Many new friendships were made, and many old ones rekindled.  It truly was a "friend" album, and a treasure trove of lasting memories.

Keith was brought in to mix the album, and did a yeoman's job.  The record was mastered at Fresh Up studio in Austin, TX, by Sam Patlove (T Bird and the Breaks).  Sam also supplied all of the steady drumbeats.   Hopefully the album will see a release sometime in late 2011/early 2012.  In the meantime, head on over to Christian Ward's Bandcamp page to listen to the album.  

Love Is Made of Work by Christian Calaway Ward